Eco-conscious German leather manufacturer ISA TanTec is poised to begin new tannery operations in the state of Mississippi amid increasing demand for locally produced leather in the American shoe industry. Operations are set to begin in January.

ISA TanTec, a recent recipient of ‘Tannery of the Year’ for its Vietnamese production site, also has a facility in China and has invested $10 million into its Mississippi operation. It’s also estimated that up to 370 jobs will be created to help build on its strong brand base, which includes Timberland, Deckers, North Face and Rockport.

Furthermore, the new Vicksburg tannery will meet ISA TanTec’s standards of its LITE (Low Impact to Environment) label and serve as a springboard to a wider vision that will establish a production hub to include engineering, administration, HR and finance.